Jasmine's Place Issue No. 7 - September/October 2013 | Page 21

I look back and see now that it started in my childhood. Although I was unaware I was doing this at the time, as a child I was a master at taking responsibility for other people’s choices, behaviors, and feelings. I was uncomfortable and afraid to speak up or confront individuals or situations; it was easier to put my feelings and thoughts under the rug. These patterns continued into my adulthood. I was comfortable being uncomfortable. Although I was unaware I was doing this at the time, as a child, I was a master at taking responsibility for other people’s choices, behaviors, and feelings. forgiveness, through the Lord Jesus Christ, forgiving others and forgiving myself as well. It’s a process and it isn’t easy however, for me it was taking the first step in recognizing patterns in my choices, behaviors, and feelings. Then I became aware and I was able to make changes or consider “why” and begin to prayerfully work on one pattern at a time. It takes time to undo years and years of habitual patterns and behavior, however, it’s not impossible once you allow yourself to acknowledge, become aware, and make steps towards hope! But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31 Copyright © Sheryl Griffin Since my diagnosis and therapy I have been able to see things in a balanced perspective and while I still struggle at times with taking responsibility for other people’s choices, putting things under the rug, and ignoring red flags, I am much more aware and strive daily to not allow myself to fall into those traps. I have also learned the importance of asking for and receiving God’s Sheryl Griffin is an Author, Encourager, Wife, and Mom. She and her husband, Doug have been married since 1996. They have two children. Originally from California, Tennessee has been home since 1998. After a diagnosis of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and panic/anxiety in 2007, her passion is to let others know they are not alone and there is always hope. Website: www.SherylGriffin.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/SherylGriffinHope Twitter: www.twitter.com/SherylGriffin Email: [email protected] JASMINE'S PLACE 21